From lake swims to historic hikes: explore Søhøjlandet, Denmark's Lake District
If being near water is your idea of heaven, Denmark's very own Lake District, Søhøjlandet, is the ultimate jewel-green retreat. This region of immense natural beauty provides an idyllic backdrop to all kinds of outdoor adventures, from kayaking and paddleboarding to swimming and fishing. What's more, it's one of Denmark's most elevated geographical areas, with much of it covered by natural woodland – perfect for mountain biking or hiking through undulating forest trails.
Located in Jutland, in the middle of Denmark, the Lake District Søhøjlandet is easily reached from the nearby city of Aarhus, yet a world away from the bustle of everyday life. Make Silkeborg your hub – the picturesque town sits in the centre of the region and is Denmark's official 'outdoor capital'. Here you can combine culture, shopping and Danish hospitality alongside forays into the hinterland for more energetic pursuits.
And if you're not inclined towards an awfully big adventure, Silkeborg itself has its own 'Silk Route', taking visitors past the colourful buildings of the old town to forest paths and lakeside beaches on a 7.5-mile circular trail. Tackle it all at once or in sections, stopping off at key attractions, such as the Aqua Aquarium and Wildlife Park or The Paper Museum, where you can discover the history of the old mill that helped establish Silkeborg in the 19th century.
Of course, it's the surrounding waterways that are Silkeborg's main attraction, with the abundant lakes connected by the Gudenåen – at 100 miles it's Denmark's longest river. Lyngsø, an urban lake formed by an ice age depression, is a top spot for freshwater swimming and fishing, and covers an impressive 9.7 hectares, meaning you'll always find a tranquil spot to call your own. At nearby Almindsø, you can enjoy one of two main bathing pools, each encircled by wooden platforms – just perfect for jumping in and making a splash. Or head to Langsø – with gardens that reach the water's edge, it's a lovely spot for a picnic or an afternoon of gliding along on a paddleboard.
With so many naturally wild spaces and thriving habitats for birds and mammals, you'll want to keep an eye out for wildlife. At Sminge Lake, north-east of Silkeborg, the marshes and reeds provide breeding grounds and a safe haven for abundant birdlife, including Nordic waterfowl. Crossed by the Gudenåen and fed by the Gjern River, this spot can be reached by the towpath and is worth exploring by kayak or canoe, which can be rented in town. Slåensø is another of Denmark's most pristine lakes – here, wildlife flourishes and the water is clean enough to drink. With the nearby Kongestolen, or King's Seat, at 82 metres offering gorgeous views over the water, you could make a day of it with a loop around the 2-mile lakeside rambling trail.
Another way to take in the enormous expanse of waterways is to board a traditional steamboat. There are nine in total, whose names translate to birds such as the falcon, heron and tern. The mother of them all is the Hjejlen, which began sailing in 1861 and is the world's oldest coal-fired paddle steamer. Declared a historical monument by the Ship Preservation Foundation, and enjoyed by the writer Hans Christian Andersen, it can ferry you in the summer months beyond Silkeborg to the villages of Laven and Ry, which are part of the scenic Himmelbjerget trail.
At 147 metres above sea level, the 'sky mountain' Himmelbjerget is one of Denmark's highest points. Historically important as a centuries-old meeting point, climbing the hill offers panoramic views over Lake Julsø and the surrounding countryside, along with the chance to explore the 25-metre tower built in 1875 as a memorial to King Frederik VII.
For a faster-paced way to explore, take to the area's network of mountain bike trails that take you from the Nordskoven forest to the Gjern Bakker hills. Known affectionately as 'Denmark's Roof', the terrain here offers dramatic uplands and deep valleys. Or opt for the old railway line that runs between Funder and Brande, through the deciduous forests of East Jutland – a gentler nature trail that's suitable on foot, bike or horseback.
Whether you seek thrills or tranquillity, Lake District Søhøjlandet's mix of land and water adventures promises both restoration and inspiration.
Explore the lakes and trails of Søhøjlandet
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